FAAN, Military apprehend bandits near Akure Airport runway

Four suspected bandits have been apprehended following a security breach at Akure Airport, in a coordinated operation involving the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Air Force, and other security agencies.

The suspects were handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.

Airport officials said the incident began when an air traffic controller observed unusual activity from the control tower. According to FAAN, armed men reportedly chased farmers from nearby farmland toward the airport runway, prompting an immediate security response.

FAAN Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, explained that a woman and several young men were seen fleeing farms behind the airport perimeter, calling for help. The alarm triggered a joint search by FAAN’s Aviation Security unit, the Nigerian Air Force, Amotekun, and other local security outfits, leading to the capture of four suspects.

The incident has reignited concerns over airport safety, particularly the inadequate perimeter fencing at several regional airports. Akure Airport, situated close to communities facing rising security challenges, has been highlighted as vulnerable to incursions.

FAAN noted that Akure Airport has been prioritised under its Airport Infrastructure Rehabilitation Programme, which includes plans to enhance perimeter security. The upgrades are expected to be completed by 2027. In the meantime, the authority has intensified security through armed aviation patrols, agro-ranger deployments, observation posts, and night-vision surveillance to prevent further threats.